Texas Special Police facts for kids
The Texas Special Police was a group of law enforcement officers formed in Texas during a time called the Reconstruction Era. They were created to help fight crime all across the state.
Contents
History of the Texas Special Police
Why the Police Force Was Formed
After the American Civil War, Texas was going through a period of big changes known as the Reconstruction Era. Crime was a problem across the state. To help make Texas safer, Governor Edmund J. Davis decided to create a new police force.
When the Police Force Started
The Texas Special Police was officially formed on July 22, 1870. At first, there were 30 Special Police Officers (SPOs). These officers worked as helpers to other police groups throughout Texas.
The End of the Special Police
The Texas Special Police did not last very long. On April 22, 1873, a new state government was elected. This new government decided to end the law that created the state police. So, the Texas Special Police stopped operating.
What the Texas Special Police Did
The main goal of the Texas Special Police was to help other law enforcement groups in Texas. They worked to support local police and sheriffs in keeping the peace and fighting crime across the state. They were there to assist whenever and wherever needed.
